Marshall County Tribune: Local News: County marks 'EMS Week' (05/21/08)

In front of the new EMS building on South Ellington Parkway are, from left, Joey King, James Bourland and Chesley Newton with the Marshall County Emergency Medical Service. 'It's like a five-star hotel compared to what we had before,' says acting director James Whorley.

"I'm passionate about the ambulance service. I want to see it continue to be a shining example of what an emergency medical service is supposed to be," declares James Whorley, acting director of the Marshall County EMS.

Last week was "EMS Week," and Whorley wants to take this opportunity to thank both his employees for their hard work and dedication and the community for its support. He is grateful to Marshall County, especially for the new building on the bypass into which they moved in January 2007.

"It's like a five-star hotel compared to what we had before!" exclaims Whorley.

He explains that there is a shortage of paramedics in other counties, but Marshall County is well-staffed with a total of 30 full-time and 15 part-time ambulance personnel, plus three "billing ladies" who work in the front office.

There are nine persons on each shift and they work a rotation of 24 hours on and 48 hours off. There are four ambulances available 24/7, plus a "day . . .Pick up a copy of today's edition, May 21, 2008 for full coverage.